For most people, during and right after use. Restwave uses TENS/EMS-style pulses. In a review of 91 placebo-controlled trials, pain was clearly lower during and right after TENS than with a sham device, with no serious side effects. Heat adds to it: in a neck pain trial, home heat reduced pain and stiffness and helped people turn their heads further.

No, and be wary of anything that says it will. The relief is real but temporary. Lasting change comes from movement, strength and posture work. Restwave makes that easier: use it for 15 minutes, then stretch while your neck is warm.

It targets the neck behind them. Most people with tension headaches also have neck pain, and neck massage reduced how often tension headaches happened in a controlled trial. Many people use pulse therapy at the first twinge. Start on a gentle mode. It hasn’t been tested for migraines.

Gentle levels soothe, stronger rhythms loosen. Light tingling modes are best for soreness; tapping and kneading modes work the tight muscle itself. Your body gets used to one setting within about five days, so rotate between the 5 modes and nudge the level up over time.

It’s drug-free relief you can use alongside them. Many people prefer to try drug-free options first. Don’t stop or change any medication without talking to your doctor.

Don’t use it if you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator or other implanted electronic device, metal implants in your neck, heart disease or epilepsy, or if you’re pregnant. Back of the neck only: never on the front or sides of your neck, on your head, or on broken, irritated or numb skin. Not while driving, or if you might fall asleep. Keep it away from children. Heat: if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling, use the lowest heat and ask your doctor first. Avoid heat during a fresh flare-up. Start at level 1 and stop if anything feels uncomfortable. Mild skin redness can happen. Restwave gives temporary relief. If your pain is severe, new or lasting, see a doctor.

Yes. It weighs about 6 oz, has no cord while you use it and makes no motor noise, so you can wear it through a call, a study session or a gaming break.

Warm, not hot. 3 heat levels, warm in about 3 seconds, and unlike a wheat bag it stays warm for the whole session. Start on the lowest setting.

Yes, as your wind-down before lights out. Use a gentle mode sitting up, let the 15-minute timer end the session, then put it away before you lie down. Easing pain before bed can make it easier to settle, but it isn’t a sleep aid and shouldn’t be worn while you sleep.

Send it back within 30 days for a full refund. Not everyone responds to pulse therapy, so we’d rather you try it risk-free.